In May, the University of Alaska relaxed its mandate on masks, and said, in line with CDC guidelines, fully vaccinated University of Alaska employees, contractors, students and visitors would no longer be required to wear masks. People who were not fully vaccinated must continue to wear a mask while on university property, at university field sites, and in university vehicles.”
Now, effective Aug. 2, a new mask policy is the old policy:
The use of a face mask or face shield is required on all UAA campuses, regardless of vaccination status. Wearing a mask is of particular importance if in an enclosed room or university vehicle. In classrooms, masks are required at all times.
Masks are also required outdoors if it is not possible to maintain 6 feet of distance from other people and when mandated by an event- or location-specific mitigation plan.
Anyone who visits a UAA campus should wear a mask when entering and exiting facilities, when traveling to and from personal workstations and when work requires meetings or contact with other people. Masks are not required inside a private, on-campus residential unit or when an individual is alone inside a private office with the door shut.
If the state, local government or UA system institute more restrictive requirements, those requirements will supersede this policy. Chancellors may grant exceptions to the masking requirements, based on local conditions and CDC guidance. Chancellors will notify the president and HR of approved exceptions.
Th new policy relies heavily on the cooperation and personal responsibility of the entire UAA community, the university announced.
Whenever possible, concerns about face coverings should be respectfully addressed at the time such concerns arise by informing the individual about this policy and encouraging compliance in a courteous and considerate manner.
There are exemptions for those who can’t wear masks due to a medical condition or specific work requirement or hazard.
